A freight train carrying 35 containers of goods for export departs from Hai'an, Nantong and runs toward Yangshan Special Comprehensive Bonded Area in Shanghai on June 6. [Photo/WeChat account: shlgguanweihui]

A freight train carrying 35 containers filled with goods for export departed from Hai'an, Nantong and toward Yangshan Special Comprehensive Bonded Area in Shanghai on June 6, marking the beginning of a trial period for a new sea-rail combined transport system connecting Nantong and Shanghai.

The Nantong-Shanghai freight train carried goods produced by Nantong-based companies, including bedding, fitness facilities, and furniture, which will be exported to countries in Europe and the Americas through Yangshan Port in Shanghai.

Throughout the trial period, the Nantong-Shanghai Railway will run weekly. After it officially begins operating on July 10, regular trains are expected to run every day at fixed times between Hai'an and Yangshan Port.

Several logistics companies worked together to develop the sea-rail transportation corridor between Hai’an and Yangshan Port.

The sea-rail combined transport system serves as a new connection between central and northern Jiangsu province and Shanghai's port areas, in addition to existing waterways and land transportation.

It is meant to improve transportation efficiency, reduce logistics costs for enterprises, and alleviate road traffic congestion. It will help promote economic development throughout the Yangtze River Delta region and allow domestic enterprises to enhance their competitiveness.